Dogs removed from property after attacking cyclist

DOG ATTACK: Keen cyclist Tony Wolfe was attacked by two dogs while he rode his bike. Although he sustained serious lacerations requiring stitches he doesn't want any action taken against the dogs or the owner, all he wants is his message to get out, to keep your animals secured so they don't attack people. Photo: Max Fleet / NewsMailMax Fleet

Dog Attack - Sharon 2015:
Keen cyclist Tony Wolfe was attacked by two dogs while he rode his bike. Although he sustained serious lacerations requiring stitches he doesn't want any action taken against the dogs or the owner, all he wants is his message to get out, to keep your animals secured so they don't attack people.

A BUNDABERG cyclist says he had his leg ripped open during a horrific dog attack that left him with a nasty gash requiring about 10 stitches.

Tony Wolfe, 66, was on his regular bike ride on Rustic Rd in Sharon on Sunday morning when he said two cattle dogs came out of nowhere to attack him.

The NewsMail contacted the owner of the two dogs who did not wish to comment.

Mr Wolfe said he was riding along the road, with the noise of a nearby mower blocking out all other sounds, when he suddenly felt a sharp pain on his left leg.

"It was like two dogs fighting over a bone but the bone was my leg," he said.

Mr Wolfe said he did not realise the extent of his injury until he went to Bundaberg Hospital.

"It was between my calf and ankle and was deep enough to reach my tendons," he said.

DOG BITE: Tony Wolfe sustained a serious gash on his leg after being attacked by two dogs while riding his pushbike in Sharon. Photo: contributedcontributed

Mr Wolfe said this was not his first encounter with the cattle dogs.

"The last time they attacked me they only bit my shoe," he said.

Bundaberg Regional Council's health and regulatory services spokesman Wayne Honor confirmed an investigation was under way

"The complaint was received on Monday morning and officers have been working with the complainant and dog owner to substantiate the claims," he said.

"While the investigation is ongoing and until these facts can be verified, both dogs have been removed from the property."

Cr Honor said council investigated every report regarding dog attacks and if the attack could be verified, and depending on the circumstances council could declare the dog dangerous, menacing or issue a destruction notice to the dog owner.

"While council is the regulator and investigates these matters, dogs are the responsibility of their owner," he said.

"Owners need to ensure they have an appropriate enclosure to contain their animal which will help reduce the risk of dog attacks."

Mr Wolfe said he did not want the dogs destroyed but only a guarantee they would not be loose on the streets.